U.S. patent application number 14/274459 was filed with the patent office on 2014-11-13 for asynchronous social consumption.
The applicant listed for this patent is William P. Tolany. Invention is credited to William P. Tolany.
Application Number | 20140337475 14/274459 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51865669 |
Filed Date | 2014-11-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140337475 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tolany; William P. |
November 13, 2014 |
ASYNCHRONOUS SOCIAL CONSUMPTION
Abstract
A method of displaying previously recorded and stored primary
media content, such as a movie, program, or application, is
provided with simultaneous display of previously transmitted
secondary content, such as social media.
Inventors: |
Tolany; William P.; (Austin,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Tolany; William P. |
Austin |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51865669 |
Appl. No.: |
14/274459 |
Filed: |
May 9, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61821339 |
May 9, 2013 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
709/218 ;
715/753 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 65/4084 20130101;
H04N 21/2665 20130101; H04N 21/2668 20130101; G06F 3/04847
20130101; H04L 65/60 20130101; G06F 3/0482 20130101; H04N 21/25891
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
709/218 ;
715/753 |
International
Class: |
H04L 29/06 20060101
H04L029/06; G06F 3/0484 20060101 G06F003/0484 |
Claims
1. A method of providing asynchronous media content for consumption
by a user, the method comprising: displaying previously
publicly-transmitted Primary Content on a display; simultaneously
displaying previously publicly-transmitted Secondary Content on the
display; updating the Secondary Content on the display over time;
and correlating the displaying of the Secondary Content and the
Primary Content.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving transmission
of and storing user content in response to an input device.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising storing Primary
Content data and Secondary Content data on a memory storage
device.
4. The method of claim 3, further comprising storing triggers
correlated to the Primary Content data.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein updating of the Secondary Content
is in response to a trigger.
6. The method of claim 4, wherein the triggers are embedded in the
Primary Content data.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving user input
for controlling the displaying of Primary or Secondary Content.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the Primary Content is selected
from the group consisting of: movies, television or cable programs,
videos, concert and music videos, music, audio books, applications,
sporting events, and other recorded events.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the Secondary Content is selected
from the group consisting of: social media, textual media, audio
media, visual media, audio-visual media, texts, SMS messages,
photos, images, programs, and documents.
10. The method of claim 7, further comprising changing the
displayed Primary Content or Secondary Content in response to a
user input.
11. A method of providing asynchronous viewing of media content to
users, comprising: connecting one or more content servers to the
internet, the content servers having stored thereon Primary Content
data and Secondary Content data; connecting a private network
located at a premises, via the internet, to the one or more content
servers; transmitting Primary Content data and correlated Secondary
Content data for simultaneous viewing on a display at the
premises.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the Primary Content data and
Secondary Content data are resident on the same server.
13. The method of claim 11, wherein the private network comprises
at least two of the following network components: laptop computer,
desktop computer, server, mobile device, tablet, cable box,
television, remote controller, and gateway.
14. The method of claim 11, wherein the Primary Content data is
selected from the group consisting of: movies, television or cable
programs, videos, concert and music videos, music, audio books,
applications, sporting events, and other recorded events; and
wherein the Secondary Content data is selected from the group
consisting of: social media, textual media, audio media, visual
media, audio-visual media, texts, SMS messages, photos, images,
programs, and documents.
15. The method of claim 11, wherein the one or more content servers
further have trigger data stored thereon, the trigger data
correlating the Primary and Secondary Content data.
16. The method of claim 11, further comprising: connecting, via the
internet, a remote provider network to the content server or
private network; and transmitting Primary Content data and
Secondary Content data from the provider network to the content
server or facilitating transmission of such data to the private
network.
17. The method of claim 11, further comprising at least one of:
maintaining individual user accounts on a user account server
corresponding to a plurality of private networks; administering
access by private networks to Primary and Secondary Content on the
content server; maintaining individual provider accounts, on a
provider account server, corresponding to a plurality of provider
networks; and administering access of a provider network to the
content server.
18. The method of claim 11, wherein transmitting Primary Content
data and correlated Secondary Content data for simultaneous viewing
on a display at the premises comprises streaming data for display
or uploading data to the private network.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein administering access by a user
of a private network further comprises collecting, storing, and
associating user data with the corresponding user account.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a U.S. non-provisional application
claiming priority and benefit of prior-filed U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/821,339, filed May 9, 2013.
FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to information
consumption and, more particularly, to the consumption of thematic
information intended to enhance the enjoyment of a specific
experience.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Two significant and competing trends are related to the
present disclosure. The first trend is the significant rise in the
amount of social media content. Regardless of the form and subject
matter of this social content, it has become increasingly unwieldy
for individuals to manage and consume its growing volume. In
addition, the social media content accessed by individuals is
typically organized around the creators of that content rather than
the content theme or subject matter itself. Current social media
content also tends to be ephemeral, with the majority of
consumption of specific social media content occurring soon after
its publication. Individuals do not possess convenient access to
historical thematic social content.
[0004] The second related trend is the increasing prevalence of
asynchronous content consumption unrelated to social media. New
technologies have enabled individuals to time-shift content
consumption to fit their own personal schedule. Content is also
consumed across geographies at different times either due to time
zone differences or general availability of the specific
experience. Furthermore, content creators now also have enhanced
distribution methods that remove time restrictions on when their
creations must be consumed. These enhanced distribution methods
enable individuals to consume content whenever it is convenient for
them, greatly increasing the likelihood of asynchronous
consumption.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] For a more complete understanding of the features and
advantages of the present invention, reference is now made to the
detailed description of the invention along with the accompanying
figures in which corresponding numerals in the different figures
refer to corresponding parts and in which:
[0006] FIG. 1 is a schematic layout of an exemplary display
according to a method of the disclosure;
[0007] FIG. 2 is an exemplary display of Primary and Secondary
Content according to aspects of the disclosure; and
[0008] FIG. 3 is an exemplary display of Primary and Secondary
Content, and User Content Input prompts according to aspects of the
disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 4 is an exemplary display of Customization Preferences
and prompts according to aspects of the disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustrating an aggregated view of
activity related to the method of this disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of a database and data
stored therein according to an aspect of the disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 7 is an exemplary computer network according to an
aspect of the disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 8 is a schematic of an exemplary computerized
architecture according to an aspect of the disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 9 is a flow chart according to an aspect of the
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS
[0015] The present disclosure is described with reference to the
figures of the drawing showing one or more examples of how the
inventions can be made and used. In the drawing, reference
characters are used throughout the several views to indicate like
or corresponding parts. In the description which follows, like or
corresponding parts are marked throughout with the same reference
numerals.
Computer/Computerized System
[0016] The system, methods, and other embodiments according to the
present disclosure include computerized systems requiring the
performance of one or more methods or steps performed on or in
association with one or more computer. A computer is a programmable
machine having two principal characteristics, namely, it responds
to a set of instructions in a well-defined manner and can execute a
pre-recorded list of instructions (e.g., a program). A computer
according to the present disclosure is a device with a processor
and a memory. For purposes of this disclosure, a computer includes
a server, a personal computer, (i.e., desktop computer, laptop
computer, netbook), a mobile communications device (e.g., "smart"
phone), and devices providing functionality through internal
components or connection to an external computer, server, or global
communications network (such as the internet) to take direction
from or engage in processes which are then delivered to other
system components. Those of skill in the art recognize that other
devices, alone or in conjunction with an architecture associated
with a system, can provide a computerized environment for carrying
out the methods disclosed herein. The method aspects of the
disclosure are computer implemented and, more particularly, at
least one step is carried out using a computer.
[0017] General-purpose computers include hardware components. A
memory, memory device, or memory storage device enables a computer
to store data and programs and may be referred to, in part or as a
whole, as a database. Common memory storage devices include disk
drives, tape drives, thumb drives, and others known in the art. An
input device can be a keyboard, mouse, hand-held controller, remote
controller, a touchscreen, and other input devices known in the
art. The input device is the conduit through which data and
instructions enter a computer. An output device is a display
screen, printer, or other device letting the user sense what the
computer has accomplished, is accomplishing, or is expected to
accomplish. A central processing unit (CPU) is the "brains" of the
computer and executes instructions and performs calculations. The
CPU can be a micro-processor, processor, one or more printed
circuit boards (PCBs). These and other components make it possible
for computer components to work together or in conjunction with
external devices and systems, for example, a bus to transmit data
within the computer, ports for connectivity to external devices or
data transmission systems (such as the internet), wireless
transmitters, read and read-write devices, etc., such as are known
in the art.
Server
[0018] A server is a computer or device on a network that manages
network resources. There are many different types of servers,
including remote, live and network access servers, data servers,
member servers, staging servers, etc. A server can be hardware
and/or software that manages access to a centralized resource or
service in a network. For purposes of this disclosure, the term
"server" also includes "virtual servers" which can be hosted on
actual servers.
Network
[0019] A computer network or data network is a communications
network allowing computers to exchange data, with networked devices
passing data to each other on data connections. Network devices
that originate, route, and terminate data are called nodes. The
connections (links) between nodes are established using wire or
wireless media. Nodes can include hosts, such as PCs, phones,
servers, and networking hardware. Devices are networked together
when one device is able to exchange information with the other
device whether or not they have a direct connection to each other.
Computer networks support applications such as access to the World
Wide Web (WWW) or internet, shared use of application and storage
servers, printers, and use of email and instant messaging
applications. Computer networks differ in the physical media to
transmit signals, protocols to organize network traffic, network
size, topology, and organizational intent.
Gateway
[0020] A (control) gateway is a network node that acts as an
entrance to another network. In homes, the gateway is the ISP
(internet service provider) that connects the user to the internet.
In enterprises, the gateway node often acts as proxy server and
firewall. The gateway is also associated with a router, which uses
headers and forwarding tables to determine where packets are sent,
and a switch, which provides the actual path for the packet in and
out of the gateway.
Router
[0021] A router forwards data packets along networks and is
connected to at least two networks, commonly two LANs, WANs, or a
LAN and its ISP's network. Routers are located at "gateways," the
places where two or more networks connect. Routers use headers and
forwarding tables to determine paths for forwarding packets and use
protocols to communicate with each other to configure a route
between hosts.
Database
[0022] One or more databases are used for storing information and
data. The information stored on a database can, for example, be
related to a user, content source, primary or secondary content
provider, third-party content source, a content host, etc. One of
ordinary skill in the art appreciates that "a database" can be a
plurality of databases, each of which can be linked to one another,
accessible by a user via a user interface, stored on a computer
readable medium or a memory of a computer (e.g., PC, server, etc.),
and accessed by users via global communications networks (e.g., the
internet) which may be linked using satellites, wired technologies,
or wireless technologies.
Description
[0023] The two trends discussed above are at odds. The volume and
nature of social content consumption means it is driven by its
publication date and time, but individuals desire to consume
content at their own convenience. Hence, there is a need for
asynchronous social consumption with thematic information
solicited, curated, and customizable to enhance the enjoyment of a
specific experience, while also enabling an individual to
time-shift their consumption of the thematic information to their
unique desire.
[0024] FIG. 1 is a schematic of an exemplary system according to
the disclosure showing data flow to and from an exemplary display.
A computerized system, generally designated 100, includes a display
102, a user input device 104, and a content database 106.
Input Device
[0025] The user input device can be a keyboard, mouse, touch
screen, voice activated controller, remote control, or other such
device as is known in the art. In the case of a touch screen, the
display and input device may merge. Generally, the input device 104
controls the content seen on the display 102. The same or a
separate user input device can allow the user to input data to the
system which can be displayed and stored.
Display
[0026] The display 102 can be a television screen, mobile device
screen, computer screen, tablet screen, or any other electronic
screen capable of displaying audio, video, and audio-visual content
and connected or connectable to a database 106, by wire or
wirelessly.
[0027] An exemplary display is seen in FIG. 1, having a portions of
the display dedicated to viewing Primary Content 108 and Secondary
Content 110. The display can also feature Control Prompts 112 and
additional features as explained below.
Primary Content
[0028] Primary Content is previously recorded and transmitted
entertainment data. Such data includes, for example, movies,
television or cable programs, videos, concert and music videos,
music, audio books, applications, sporting events, or other
recorded live events. The Primary Content is viewed asynchronously
to one or more initial transmissions, broadcasts airings, etc. That
is, the Primary Content has already been viewed or experienced by
the public prior to consumption by the user. The primary content
data 120 can be created, stored, and transmitted using various
formats and protocols, translated to further formats and protocols
as necessary, and can be made available for asynchronous viewing by
separate platforms and in various formats. Primary Content data can
include audio, visual, audio-visual, and textual information.
Secondary Content
[0029] The display 102 also simultaneously shows Secondary Content
110. The Secondary Content 110 is created after or concurrently
with a transmission of the Primary Content 108. The user views the
Secondary Content asynchronously to one or more initial
transmissions, broadcasts, postings, airings, etc. That is, the
Secondary Content has already been created, transmitted, viewed and
experienced by the public prior to viewing by the user on the
display. The Secondary Content data 124 is curated, sequenced,
correlated to Primary Content data, and stored on a database.
Generally, the Secondary Content data consists of "social media"
regardless of how it was transmitted, re-transmitted, collected,
solicited, or via what platform it was transmitted or posted. For
example, social content can be presented from initial data
collection and transmission platforms, such as Twitter.RTM.,
Facebook.RTM., Instagram.RTM., Tumblr.RTM. or other commercial
platforms, or can be collected from generally accessible public
websites having publicly posted comments and other items. The
Secondary Content data can be textual, audio, visual, and
audio-visual media, such as, for example, texts, SMS messages,
photos, images, programs, and documents (in various formats, such
as gif, jpeg, png, mpeg, etc.). The Secondary Content can also be
"scripts" created by third-party providers and supplied for the
purpose of simultaneous viewing with selected Primary Content.
[0030] The Secondary Content also contains corresponding
information components, such as content source (e.g., Name), type
(e.g., photo, text, video, etc.), classification (e.g., comment,
joke, fact, etc.), date and time of content posting, ratings of the
content, ratings of the content source, etc.
[0031] Further, the Secondary Content can be correlated with a
private Group, that is, a group of members comprising other users
or contributors. Such a feature allows the user to see displayed
Secondary Content created or transmitted by other persons in the
Group. For example, the members of a Group can transmit Secondary
Content about a selected Primary Content (e.g., a movie, show,
event). When the Group Secondary Content is selected for viewing,
the Secondary Content of the Group members is displayed to the
user. The user can also submit Secondary Content with viewing
limited to only Group members. The ability to add content to the
Group Secondary Content can be limited to only Group members.
Control Prompts
[0032] The display 102 and input device 104 can, singly, or
jointly, show visual Control Prompts to assist in operating display
and content control features. Control Prompts 112a-c can be seen on
display 102 along with the Primary and Secondary Content, 108 and
110, and preferably can be reduced, hidden, or accessed by
scroll-over, remote control transmission, touch, or other input
from the User Input Device. Control Prompts 112a-c can include
controls for the Primary Content 108 such as play, pause, stop,
forward, backward, zoom, reduce display window, etc. Control
Prompts can also include various mechanisms to control audio,
video, or audio-visual synchronization between Primary and
Secondary Content. Similar Control Prompts 112 can be provided for
controlling the Secondary Content 110. Further Control Prompts and
functionality for the Secondary Content can be provided as
explained elsewhere herein.
[0033] Further, the display 102 can show or provide hyperlinks,
tabs, icons, text, or other visual identifiers 112d-f providing
additional information about the Primary and Secondary Content and
access to further information or control functions. For example,
the display can include a running timer for the Primary or
Secondary Content, time and date stamps, etc.
Content Input
[0034] The display 102 or Input Device 104 can also provide
controls, prompts, and displays for inputting content and of user
content previously input. For example, in one embodiment, a user
can post or transmit user-created or selected Input Content,
preferably related or in response to the Primary or Secondary
Content. Such Input Content can include text, audio, visual, or
audio-visual media, subjective ratings of the Primary and Secondary
Content or their sources. The user can designate which other
consumers can view the user's Input Content (e.g., public at large,
Groups, etc.).
[0035] For example, the display 102 and one or more Input Devices
104 can contain a text box 104a, into which the user can input a
text comment. An Input Device 104 can allow input of the text
using, for example, a real or virtual keyboard 104b, real or
virtual button array 104c, voice recognition input 104d, input and
other icons 104f, etc. The display 102 or Input Device 104 can also
contain rating icons 102a (e.g., +/-, thumbs up/down, multiple
stars, etc.) related to displayed content or sources. Similarly,
such ratings can be input by the user with the Input Device 104.
Additionally, the display 102 or Input Device 104 can provide icons
or prompts 104c for controlling display of Secondary Content, such
as selecting or blocking from view or transmission particular
sources of content (e.g., comments by particular secondary
contributors, by contributors having selected ratings or volume of
contributions, etc.), types of content (e.g., video, images, etc.),
volume and rate of content (e.g., number of comments or responses
to comments displayed simultaneously, duration of display of
Secondary Content), levels or layers of content (e.g., responses to
or discussion strings re: Secondary Content), classifications of
content (e.g., music, quotations, jokes, etc.).
Database
[0036] The Primary and Secondary Content data 120 and 124 is stored
temporarily or permanently on a database 106 for transmission to a
user network component and display 102. The database can be one or
more computer drives, memory devices, servers, or applications. The
database can be remote or local. The data on the database can be
resident on one or multiple databases, transmitted to and from
multiple databases, and can be downloaded, streamed, or otherwise
transmitted, by wire or wirelessly, to the user's network and
display 102. For example, the database 102 can be on a Content or
Provider Server located distantly and accessed via the internet.
The content can be streamed or downloaded to a local computer for
display.
[0037] The database can be secured and accessed through security
protocols (e.g., user name, password, virtual badge or tag, etc.).
The database or connected databases can further store, manage, and
administer user accounts including user preferences,
identification, billing information, use history, account
information, etc.
Curating, Sequencing, Triggers
[0038] The Primary Content data 120 is stored on the database.
Triggers 122, also stored on the database, are correlated to the
Primary Content data. The triggers can be embedded in the Primary
Content data or can be stored separately and correlated to the
Primary Content data prior to, concurrent with, or after
transmission of the Primary Content data from the database. The
triggers are further correlated to selected stored Secondary
Content data 124. The triggers can employ video, audio, image,
text, geo-location or proximity of the user to a place, wireless
communications, user prompts, or other means. Such triggers ensure
the curated and sequenced Secondary Content data is displayed to
the user at appropriate times and for appropriate intervals to
enhance their interactive experience.
[0039] The triggers 122 are correlated to stored items of Secondary
Content data 124A-C. For example, if the Primary Content data 120
is a video having a running time, the triggers can be correlated to
designated times of the video. As a trigger is activated at a
designated time, correlated Secondary Content data 124A-C is
provided as displayed Secondary Content 124a-c on display 102. For
example, at a running time t.sub.1 of the Primary Content, a
trigger 122A causes the display of Secondary Content data 124A at
Secondary Content displays 124a; at a later running time t.sub.2, a
trigger 122B causes the display of Secondary Content 124B at 124b;
etc. Triggers can also be correlated by or to prompts by the user
Input Device 104. Further in an embodiment, the triggers can be
selected or de-selected by the user according to trigger type,
source, rating, date, etc.
[0040] Further, triggers can be automatically created in response
to the occurrence of predetermined events in the Primary Content.
For example, software can automatically create a trigger to display
an item of Secondary Content corresponding to selected events
detected in the Primary Content (e.g., gunshot, scream, car chase,
applause, etc.).
[0041] FIG. 2 is an exemplary display of Primary and Secondary
Content according to aspects of the disclosure. The display
includes information regarding the Primary Content 10, such as
title, source, date of release, etc. Secondary Content 20 is
displayed, including, for example, information about the Secondary
Content such as source or contributor 30, classification 31, and
the item of Secondary Content 32.
[0042] While experiencing Primary Content at any time asynchronous
to the initial transmission of the content, an individual
simultaneously accesses and sees Secondary Content and related
information. Curated and sequenced Secondary Content is presented
to the individual to coincide with and supplement their experience
with the Primary Content. The display of each Secondary Content and
related information, such as source 30, classification 31, and item
32, is triggered by identifiers in or correlated to the Primary
Content. In one embodiment, a user can use a control prompts 12 to
direct display of the Secondary Content irrespective of the
triggers. This Secondary Content and its control are intended to
enhance the experience of a user's interaction with the Primary
Content, without requirement as to when or how the Primary Content
is accessed.
[0043] FIG. 3 is an exemplary display of Primary and Secondary
Content, and User Content Input prompts according to aspects of the
disclosure. The trigger 40 correlates the Secondary Content to the
Primary Content or occurrences therein. The triggers can use video,
audio, image, text, proximity, wireless communication, or other
means, including optional content embedded within the Primary
Content. Such a trigger ensures the curated and sequenced Secondary
Content is presented to the user at appropriate times to enhance
their interactive experience.
[0044] The user Input Prompts, such as classify 50, rate 51, and
"add your own" 52, enable the user to input their own secondary
content. The classification 51 prompt allows user cataloging of
specific items of Secondary Content. The rate 51 prompt enables a
user to assess perceived utility for items of Secondary Content.
Though not explicitly illustrated here, such prompts and features
are possible for all aspects of the Secondary Content. The "add
your own" 52 prompt enables a user to supplement the curated and
sequenced Secondary Content and make it available to other users.
Through these features, the utility of the Secondary Content
increases for any individuals interacting with the Primary and
Secondary Content, enhancing their experience.
[0045] FIG. 4 is an exemplary display of Customization Preferences
and prompts according to aspects of the disclosure. Through these
preferences, a user can customize the curated and sequenced
Secondary Content to their own desires. The Contributor 60 prompt
represents an ability to filter information by source, the type 61
prompt represents an ability to filter information by
classification, and the rating 62 prompt represents the ability to
filter information by perceived utility as assessed by others. It
is assumed that individual customization options for Secondary
Content are not limited to these examples and may be extended to
any specific element of available content or related information.
Through customization, the specific Secondary Content displayed is
controlled by the user, presenting a dynamic consumption experience
to enhance the interaction with the content.
[0046] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustrating an aggregated view of
activity related to the method of this disclosure. FIG. 6 is a
schematic representation of a database and data stored therein
according to an aspect of the disclosure. Presented data 70 may
take the form of popular, recent, or otherwise noteworthy specific
content. The database 80 stores the curated and sequenced data and
related information. These are only examples, as the aggregated
data 70 and database 80 will necessarily be far more involved that
what is possible to represent here. The data, both in aggregated
and disaggregated forms, enables a richer experience of the
Secondary Content and related information, which, in turn, enables
an enhanced experience with the Primary Content.
System Architecture
[0047] FIG. 7 is an exemplary computer network according to an
aspect of the disclosure. The network 50 may have multiple
components, including Hardware, Software, Databases, Personal
Devices, etc. The illustrated network includes personal devices 60,
an administrative console 70, a content database 72, a user filter
74, and a presentation layer 76. The network need not include all
of these exemplary devices and can include additional or substitute
components. Communication between components can be by wire,
wireless, infrared, radio frequency, Ethernet, or any other
technology known or later developed.
[0048] The personal devices 60 access content from the presentation
layer 76, contribute content to the content database 72, or
contribute preferences to the user filter 74. Contributed content
may or may not first be routed through an admin console 70
dependent upon the contribution or contributor.
[0049] Dependent upon time, location, user preference, and other
potential variables conveyed through the personal devices 60,
content from the content database 72 is compared to user filter 74
information before being passed on to the presentation layer 76 for
consumption on personal devices 60.
[0050] FIG. 8 is a schematic of an exemplary computerized
architecture according to an aspect of the disclosure. A premises
210, such as a house, business, etc., has a remote private network
212. The network 212 will be referred to as a private network to
distinguish it from the internet and other public networks,
although the private network can have multiple authorized users. A
user can be multi-tenant or have multiple systems controlled on one
user account. Further, to indicate its installation and maintenance
independent of the provider and administrator networks, the network
212 is referred to as remote. The remote private network can also
be thought of and referred to as a user network.
[0051] The remote private network 212 can have multiple components,
including hardware, software, appliances, etc. The illustrated
private network 212 includes a display 214 having multiple,
manipulable, and optionally shown display windows 214a-e, a control
gateway 218, an IP addressable router 220, a personal computer 222,
laptop or notebook 224, and a mobile phone (or other mobile device)
226. The private network need not include all these exemplary
devices and can include additional or substitute devices.
Communication between the components of the private network is by
wire or wireless, infrared, RF, Ethernet, or any other technology
known or later developed.
[0052] The display 214 can be a television screen, computer screen,
touch screen, mobile device screen, tablet screen, etc. The display
windows 214a-e are capable of manipulation by the user, such as
maximizing, minimizing, zoom, re-arrangement, open/close, etc. The
windows 214 include at least a Primary Content window 214a, and a
Secondary Content window 214b for simultaneous display. Although
the display 214 is shown physically separate from the various
remote network components, it is understood that the display can be
integral to a component.
[0053] One or more of the private network components 218, 220, 222,
224, and 226, can be used as or have an integral user input device.
Alternately, a separate input device 215 can be provided for
controlling the display, such as a remote control with dedicated
buttons, a remote control with touch screen and menus, etc. The
input device 215 can operate the screen 214 directly or via the
network components 218, 220, 222, 224, and 226. The input device
215 can be considered a network component.
[0054] A router 220 provides connectivity with the internet 230 by
wire or wirelessly. The internet, World Wide Web, and cloud are
understood by those of skill in the art and are terms of art, and
will not be described in detail herein.
[0055] In one embodiment, a gateway 218 provides connectivity, via
the internet, to a purposed content server 234. The gateway 218 can
be a stand-alone appliance, such as a hand-held or wall-mounted
controller, or can be an application or software supplied and
accessible from another computer, such as personal computer 222,
mobile device 226, notebook 224, etc. The gateway can have the
"look and feel" of an application, web page, browser, server
interface, etc. The gateway can be operated or controlled by
gateway software providing computer executable instructions to the
hosting computer or network that, when executed, connects a
computer of the remote private network to the content server.
Initially and periodically, gateway software can be uploaded to the
private network.
[0056] The content server 234 can be an actual or virtual server,
multiple servers, and can include further hardware, software, and
networked devices. The content server 234 can be partitioned,
aggregated, etc., as is known in the art. The content server
includes both stored data and programs, such as provider content or
gateway software, and serves as a content administrator for
controlling access to and transmission of data from the content
server. The content server is web-hosted or internet-hosted and
accessed via the internet. The content server can be connected to
or accessed through a web page, via an internet browser or
application, etc.
[0057] A remote provider network 232 has connectivity to the
content server 234, again, via the internet. The provider network
can include servers (actual or virtual), and other hardware and
software, as well as other network devices. The remote provider
network is independent from the content server 234 and the private
network 212. The remote provider network stores and manages
provider content, such as software programs for controlling and
displaying primary, secondary and provider content. The content
made available by the provider network can be software, streaming
content, calendaring software or data, activation software or data,
use-management software or data, interface or protocol software,
software or data for synchronization of primary, secondary, and
provider content, software or data for synchronizing content across
multiple users or private networks, subscription software or data,
and any combination thereof. The provider content transmitted from
the content server to the remote private network, upon execution,
controls one or more of the display 214, and private network
components 215, 218, 220, 222, 224, and 226.
[0058] Provider content can include text, audio, visual,
audio-visual, or other types of content, and can correspond to
various selections of Primary Content or Secondary Content. For
example, a Provider can supply Secondary content corresponding to
selected Primary Content, such as miming commentary (via updated
display of Secondary Content) corresponding to a running movie or
program. Alternately, the Provider Content can include tutorial,
instructional, or educational items (text, photo, etc.)
corresponding to the running Primary Content. A Provider can then
offer subscriptions (free or at a cost) to users for their content
corresponding to multiple Primary Content items.
[0059] The content server 234 transmits (e.g., pushes, uploads,
etc.) provider content to the user or private network. Conversely,
the private network can download or pull content from the server.
Similarly, the provider network 232 transmits input content to the
content server 234. Conversely, the content server downloads or
pulls content from the provider network.
[0060] The content server 234 preferably acts as an administrator
by controlling access to the server, available content to the user,
etc. The content server stores, sequences, accesses, controls,
monitors, and tracks content, and/or provides accounting, logging,
and other management functions. The content server can also be
employed to maintain individual user accounts 236, for example, on
a user account server, corresponding to a user's remote private
network. The user account server can be real or virtual and can
reside on or be controlled by the content server. Similarly, the
content server can be employed to maintain individual provider
accounts 238, for example, on a provider account server,
corresponding to a plurality of remote provider networks. The
provider account server can be real or virtual and can reside on or
be controlled by the content server.
[0061] The content server 234 or associated servers (e.g., user
account server, provider account server) can administer access by a
user of a remote private network to content on the server. For
example, such administration can include identifying and verifying
the user of a remote private or provider network before allowing
access to the content server. Identification and verification can
include cross-indexing IP addresses, requiring user name and
password, etc., as is known in the art.
[0062] Further, administration can include collecting individual
user data corresponding to a remote private network. Administering
access by a user of a remote private network can include
collecting, storing, and associating user data with the
corresponding user account. Individual user data can include user
name, user password, user IP address, user physical address, user
component data, calendaring data, subscription data, or permissions
for real-time control by a subscription administrator. User data
can also include selection of content; selection of subscription
services for control content; selection of authorized
administrators having access to the user's private network;
selection of times authorized administrators have access to the
user's private network; identification of the number, type,
specifications, and location of network components and displays at
the user's premises; and any combination thereof. The server can
transmit to the private network executable software.
[0063] The content server and administrator can also administer
transmission of provider content from a provider network directly
to the remote private network, including identifying and verifying
the remote provider network and the remote private network, and
transmitting data regarding the verification to at least one of the
remote provider network and remote private network.
Method
[0064] FIG. 9 is a flow chart according to an aspect of the
invention. FIG. 9 provides a flow chart, algorithm, or decision
tree for a software program, generally designated 300, whether
resident on the private network, provider network, content server,
or a combination thereof, is activated. At step 302 the software
causes an introductory or Home window to appear on one or more user
displays. The Home display can include any number of visual prompts
providing the user access to various content, content information,
or device controls. At step 304, a plurality of Primary Content
prompts 304a-c . . . are made to appear on a user display. The
prompts can be grouped, accessed via tab or other icon, rotated or
otherwise displayed in response to user input. That is, not all of
the prompts need appear simultaneously on the display.
[0065] A user input device 301 is utilized throughout the method.
The user input device can be of various type and functionality as
described elsewhere herein. The software receives one or more user
inputs 301a-c . . . . This input, guided by the prompts 304,
directs the software to take any of a plurality of additional steps
306. For example, the input can indicate selection (or
de-selection) of Primary Content and Secondary Content, related
information components (source, type, classification, time,
ratings, etc.), display controls (window selection and arrangement,
zoom, synch, etc.), component controls (volume, play, stop, etc.),
and user content input (add comment, upload photo or video, etc.).
Further, the prompts can refer to specific commercial platforms for
social media, as described elsewhere, providing access to such
platforms and their functionality The software, in response to user
selections, can provide additional prompts, such as via drop-down
menus, text box, check lists, etc. Additional inputs can be
solicited multiple times 305 as needed until appropriate inputs are
acquired to indicate a specific action to take. For example, the
software may display selections of a Primary Content by theme,
date, type, etc., followed by displaying selected Primary Content
by title, with additional displaying of further selections (content
format, display preferences, etc.). The process can be repeated at
305 for Secondary Content and related information.
[0066] Upon receiving adequate the user inputs 301a-c . . . to
indicate a required action, the software takes a related action
306. For example, the actions 306a-c . . . can include connecting
to local, content, and provider servers, transmitting data to and
receiving data from such servers (such as content selections,
access to accounts, payment authorization, etc.), streaming or
playing content, synchronizing content, etc.
[0067] Once content is being displayed, the software will continue
to update 308 the displayed windows and content. For example,
updated Secondary Content is displayed at the prompting of triggers
309 embedded in the Primary Content, provided or retrieved from a
content or other server, manually entered, etc. During viewing, the
user can continue to provide user input at 310. This user input can
be any of the various controls, information components, etc.,
discussed herein. The software receives the input 310 and takes
appropriate action at step 312a-c . . . . Appropriate actions can
include stopping, pausing, fast forwarding, etc., of Primary or
Secondary Content, adding or changing ratings, types,
classifications, etc., providing prompts to solicit user Input
Content (text box, upload prompts, etc.), and other actions
discussed herein.
[0068] It is also possible to have real-time updates of Secondary
Content. For example, where a private Group has been selected for
Secondary Content, group members, each viewing the Primary and
Secondary Content at separate locations, can add content which is
then displayed in real-time on the displays of each participating
group member. The software determines whether requested content
requires real time administration. If real-time administration is
required, the private network is connected to the content or other
server, which administers access. A connection is made to the
server(s) hosting the real-time content and the content is
streamed, periodically transmitted, etc.
Method Support
[0069] The following disclosure is provided in support of the
methods claimed or which may be later claimed. Specifically, this
support is provided to meet the technical, procedural, or
substantive requirements of certain examining offices. It is
expressly understood that the portions or actions of the methods
can be performed in any order, unless specified or otherwise
necessary, that each portion of the method can be repeated,
performed in orders other than those presented, that additional
actions can be performed between the enumerated actions, and that,
unless stated otherwise, actions can be omitted or moved. Those of
skill in the art will recognize the various possible combinations
and permutations of actions performable in the methods disclosed
herein without an explicit listing of every possible such
combination or permutation. It is explicitly disclosed and
understood that the actions disclosed, both herein below and
throughout, can be performed in any order (xyz, xzy, yxz, yzx,
etc.) without the wasteful and tedious inclusion of writing out
every such order.
[0070] Support for the claimed methods and steps of methods is
provided here. It is explicitly understood that each of the steps
can be performed in any order, repeated, omitted, performed before
or after additional steps, named and unnamed, etc., unless stated
otherwise. The descriptions of the methods are provided with
numerical references which are to be considered no more than
references for convenience. An exemplary method 1. of providing
asynchronous media content for consumption by a user, the method
comprising: displaying previously publicly-transmitted Primary
Content on a display; simultaneously displaying previously
publicly-transmitted Secondary Content on the display; updating the
Secondary Content on the display over time; and correlating the
displaying of the Secondary Content and the Primary Content. 2. The
method of claim 1, further comprising receiving transmission of and
storing user content in response to an input device. 3. The method
of claim 1, further comprising storing Primary Content data and
Secondary Content data on a memory storage device. 4. The method of
claim 3, further comprising storing triggers correlated to the
Primary Content data. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein updating of
the Secondary Content is in response to a trigger. 6. The method of
claim 4, wherein the triggers are embedded in the Primary Content
data. 7. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving user
input for controlling the displaying of Primary or Secondary
Content. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the Primary Content is
selected from the group consisting of: movies, television or cable
programs, videos, concert and music videos, music, audio books,
applications, sporting events, and other recorded events. 9. The
method of claim 1, wherein the Secondary Content is selected from
the group consisting of: social media, textual media, audio media,
visual media, audio-visual media, texts, SMS messages, photos,
images, programs, and documents. 10. The method of claim 7, further
comprising changing the displayed Primary Content or Secondary
Content in response to a user input. An exemplary method 11. of
providing asynchronous viewing of media content to users,
comprising: connecting one or more content servers to the internet,
the content servers having stored thereon Primary Content data and
Secondary Content data; connecting a private network located at a
premises, via the internet, to the one or more content servers;
transmitting Primary Content data and correlated Secondary Content
data for simultaneous viewing on a display at the premises. 12. The
method of claim 11, wherein the Primary Content data and Secondary
Content data are resident on the same server. 13. The method of
claim 11, wherein the private network comprises at least two of the
following network components: laptop computer, desktop computer,
server, mobile device, tablet, cable box, television, remote
controller, and gateway. 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the
Primary Content data is selected from the group consisting of:
movies, television or cable programs, videos, concert and music
videos, music, audio books, applications, sporting events, and
other recorded events; and wherein the Secondary Content data is
selected from the group consisting of: social media, textual media,
audio media, visual media, audio-visual media, texts, SMS messages,
photos, images, programs, and documents. 15. The method of claim
11, wherein the one or more content servers further have trigger
data stored thereon, the trigger data correlating the Primary and
Secondary Content data. 16. The method of claim 11, further
comprising: connecting, via the internet, a remote provider network
to the content server or private network; and transmitting Primary
Content data and Secondary Content data from the provider network
to the content server or facilitating transmission of such data to
the private network. 17. The method of claim 11, further comprising
at least one of: maintaining individual user accounts on a user
account server corresponding to a plurality of private networks;
administering access by private networks to Primary and Secondary
Content on the content server; maintaining individual provider
accounts, on a provider account server, corresponding to a
plurality of provider networks; and administering access of a
provider network to the content server. 18. The method of claim 11,
wherein transmitting Primary Content data and correlated Secondary
Content data for simultaneous viewing on a display at the premises
comprises streaming data for display or uploading data to the
private network. 19. The method of claim 17, wherein administering
access by a user of a private network further comprises collecting,
storing, and associating user data with the corresponding user
account.
Conclusion
[0071] The indefinite articles "a" or "an" can mean one or more
than one of the component, part, or step that the article
introduces. The terms "and," "or," and "and/or" shall be read in
the least restrictive sense possible.
[0072] While the foregoing written description of the disclosure
enables one of ordinary skill to make and use the embodiments
discussed, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate
the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the
specific embodiments, methods, and examples herein. The invention
should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiments,
methods, and examples. While this disclosure has been described
with reference to illustrative embodiments, this description is not
intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications
and combinations of the illustrative embodiments as well as other
embodiments of the invention will be apparent to persons skilled in
the art upon reference to the description. It is, therefore,
intended that the appended claims encompass any such modifications
or embodiments. The particular embodiments disclosed above are
illustrative only, as the present disclosure may be modified and
practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those
skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It
is, therefore, evident that the particular illustrative embodiments
disclosed above may be altered or modified and all such variations
are considered within the scope of the present disclosure. The
various elements or steps according to the disclosed elements or
steps can be combined advantageously or practiced together in
various combinations or sub-combinations of elements or sequences
of steps to increase the efficiency and benefits that can be
obtained from the disclosure. It will be appreciated that one or
more of the above embodiments may be combined with one or more of
the other embodiments, unless explicitly stated otherwise. The
disclosure illustratively disclosed herein suitably may be
practiced in the absence of any element or step that is not
specifically disclosed or claimed. Furthermore, no limitations are
intended to the details of construction, composition, design, or
steps herein shown, other than as described in the claims.
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